Vasuitoga enjoying Cas challenge

Last month it was announced that the Fijian would get the opportunity to join Castleford in the build-up to the 2022 season.

The 26-year-old’s rugby journey began in his home country and continued when he joined the army as he became part of their union setup. Vasuitoga can play at either centre or wing and the trialist began by explaining just how much he is relishing the opportunity to perform at the elite level in Rugby League.

“Pre-season has been going good so far. The sessions are challenging at times, but I am getting through it and I’m really liking it here!” Junior told castlefordtigers.com.

“Since my first day, everyone has been so welcoming which is great because it is my first time working at this professional level.

“The support the boys have been giving me has been massive and the whole squad are really approachable. They have been helping me and giving me tips on what I should be doing, and the staff have been great as well so I’m liking it.

“I am taking it day by day, trying to get up to the standard but I am getting there.”

Junior currently serves as a Private Soldier in 9 Regiment RLC based in Hullavington near Chippenham and is a member of the 84 Medical Supply Squadron.

The Fijian was granted a leave of absence by his regiment in order for him to train with the Tigers over pre-season, and Junior reinstated just how much the armed forces has helped him on his journey and put forward his gratitude to them for allowing him to chase his dream.

“I joined the Army as a supply in logistics but since I joined in 2016, I started playing rugby, and pretty much during my entire time in the army, I have been playing rugby. I began playing in the army academy for the under 23s and then going up to the sevens side before playing my first senior game in France.  

“There is a massive group of rugby talent across the army, and it is great because it allows us to work on our talent as well as our career. It is a good opportunity for people to be able to join the army but at the same time work on their rugby.

“Being in the army helps massively with your discipline and discipline is everything. It is about how you look after yourself from the time you wake up in the morning, to the time you go to bed and all the little things that go in the middle.

“I am very grateful to the army for them to allow me to come and train here. A chance like this is an opportunity for me to live my dream. I am grateful that they have granted me release for these three months to come and train at this professional level.”

Lee Radford and his squad are around halfway through pre-season with the players being put through their paces since they reported back on the 8th of November.

When asked about Radford’s influence, Vasuitoga stated that all the coaching team have been on hand to give any guidance he needs.

“Not only Lee, but all of the coaching staff are very approachable and friendly. You don’t fear having to go and ask any questions. Sometimes you don’t even have to ask questions because they will come up to you and talk about what they want you to work on.

“It is really good to have this kind of coach around you and helping you to become a better player day by day.”

Christmas is just around the corner and the Tigers’ players and staff will be spending a short break with their loved ones, and Junior finished off by saying that he is excited to be having a family Christmas in Yorkshire this year.

“I have a sister who lives up here in Catterick so I will be spending Christmas with my family, my two brothers and two sisters. I am really looking forward to it!”